Stony Creek Quarry, Inc. presents class at Stony Creek granite quarry

Stony Creek Quarry, Inc. provided an educational session on the history and sustainable aspects of its unique pink granite at the New England/New York Metro Natural Stone Institute chapter event

Darrell Petit of Stony Creek Quarry, Inc — The group gathered around Petit to learn about the quarry’s history and the significance of the material.

Participants were led down into the quarry to have a closer look at the granite walls.

A local geologist explained the granite formation and its characteristics to the group.

The historic Stony Creek granite quarry – owned and operated by Stony Creek Quarry, Inc. in Branford, CT – was the site of a learning event sponsored by the New England/New York Metro Chapter of the Natural Stone Institute. A group, including architects, designers and stone industry professionals, gathered in late July to learn more about the company, and the history and composition of Stony Creek granite.

The quarry tour was led by the company’s team of Darrell Petit, Stacy Bandecchi and Tom Cleveland. Each had their own perspective to share about the material and quarry itself. Petit explained that originally there was a rail link at the entrance to the site which went straight to the nearby port. This made the granite a practical choice for building material for many landmark buildings and structures in New York City, including the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty, because it could be shipped.

It was also explained to the group that the pink hues of Stony Creek granite cannot be matched with other pink granite varieties. The geological make-up of Stony Creek granite makes it unique. Because it is a one-of-a-kind material, Stony Creek Quarry is still dealing with many of the same clients from 100 years ago who want to match the original material for a restoration or expansion project.

The group was led deep down into the quarry and had the opportunity to view the large granite walls at a close range. The company even brought in a local geologist who explained the stone’s geological composition.

After the quarry tour wrapped up, the group was bused down to the village of Stony Creek, which sits on the Long Island Sound, for a sunset cruise around the Thimble Islands. Stony Creek Quarry provided refreshments, as well as history of all the unique islands. The voyage was truly enjoyed by all.

“The Natural Stone Institute [chapter event] was an opportunity to personally meet new collaborators and reconnect with our partners all within our quarry and within the more expansive geological formation of the Thimble Islands,” said Petit. “It allowed us to show them and help educate them about the historic, the sustainable and the enduring classic Stony Creek granite.”